Security Tightened Around Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court Ahead of Former President’s Hearing
Reports indicate that security around the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court has been significantly tightened. The police, along with special task forces, have been deployed to safeguard the court premises.
Individuals entering the court are being subjected to strict verification of case numbers, and both vehicles and pedestrians are thoroughly screened. Access to Kew Road is currently restricted to residents and legal practitioners only.
The case involves former President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who was taken into custody by the Criminal Investigation Department under the Public Property Act in connection with an alleged misappropriation of state funds. He is scheduled to appear before the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court today (26).
At present, the former President is receiving treatment at the Intensive Care Unit of the National Hospital in Colombo. He is expected to be presented to the court today; however, due to medical advice recommending continued monitoring in the ICU, it is likely that he will not be able to attend in person, according to Prison Media Spokesperson Jagath Weerasinghe.
He further stated that, if ordered by the magistrate, arrangements could be made for former President Wickremesinghe to participate in legal proceedings via Zoom technology.
Security measures have also been observed in and around the National Hospital and its vicinity from early this morning (26).
